Bumbarge is a peculiar word, with equally peculiar spelling. Its phonetic transcription is /bʌmbɑrdʒ/. The word derives from the combination of two separate morphemes, "bum" and "barge." "Bum" in this context means "to make a buzzing or droning sound," while "barge" refers to a large, flat-bottomed riverboat. Hence, the term can be interpreted as a loud, buzzing sound akin to that made by a barge passing through water. Despite its curious spelling, "bumbarge" is a legitimate word that is still in use today.